Panthers backup quarterback Andy Dalton recently discovered a new addition to his professional portfolio: Premier League team owner. As Leeds United secured promotion back to the Premier League with a decisive victory over Stoke, combined with Burnley’s win over Sheffield United, Dalton, who has held a minor stake in Leeds since its relegation two years ago, was informed through a series of notifications.
Dalton shared his enthusiasm, “Did you see this? This is pretty cool.” His investment in Leeds is described as a “very, very, very, very low percentage” stake, illustrating his minor but notable involvement. “As an investor, that was great,” he added, “Buy low.”
While not possessing the majority influence like his interactions with Panthers owner David Tepper, Dalton views his involvement with Leeds positively. He commented, “It’s a fun thing to have some money in, you know?”
Dalton has not visited Leeds or its home stadium, Elland Road, yet plans to do so. Despite his busy life as an NFL player and family man, he developed an interest in soccer after watching a documentary about Manchester City, which provided him an introduction to the sport’s business aspects.
Reflecting on his growing enthusiasm, he noted, “I mean, I grew up playing soccer, I knew the rules, but I didn’t really know anything about the business of the sport.” His understanding was furthered by seeing the structure of competitions like the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.
Dalton appreciates the financial and cultural standing Leeds holds as a one-team city compared to locales like Manchester or London. With Leeds’ ascent, Dalton is aware of potential financial rewards, emphasizing, “the team he’s part of now just cashed a huge check for television revenues.”
Leeds’ path to promotion was impressive, accumulating 94 points, with Joel Piroe contributing significantly with four goals in one game. Dalton concluded, “I don’t know every second of everything. I try to have my phone tell me when things happen.”
With hopes to visit Leeds with his family, Dalton anticipates experiencing English football firsthand. “All my buddies are calling like, ‘Dude, we’ve got to go,'” he said, looking forward to seeing major clubs face Leeds in the Premier League.
